The Vatican's Commission for the Protection of Minors will meet for the third time.
This round of meetings will focus on including representatives from Asia and Africa. Also, the members of the Commission will continue to define their statutes and to organize working groups.
They have been preparing preparing a protocol for all the world's bishops since May. They also stressed the need to strengthen the responsibility and accountability on the part of anyone who commits or hide abuses.
CARD. SEAN O'MALLEY
May 4
Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors
'Theoretically there is a canon law but has not been enough. So one of the areas in which we work is that of responsibility. '
Marie Collins from Ireland, a victim of sexual abuse, is a member of the Commission. She said that the creation of the group was hopeful.
MARIE COLLINS
May 4
Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors
'I'm coming away with a very positive feeling from the meeting. I would like to say, I know there are many many survivors around the world who are hoping and have great expectations of this commission. What I can say so far is you can't make concrete promises, but as a survivor myself I am hopeful that we are going to achieve what is hoped for.â?
The second meeting of the Commission took place in July. Back then, six victims of sex abuse met with the Pope at Casa Santa Marta. He listened to their stories and delivered a strong message before them during Mass.
POPE FRANCIS
July 6
'There is no place in the ministry of the Church for those who commit these abuses, and agree not to tolerate minor damage inflicted by anyone, regardless of their clerical state.'
In September, the Pope added a new member, Msgr. Robert Oliver, who will be Secretary of the Commission. The new additions to the group include representatives from Asia and Africa and will have to be approved by Pope Francis.
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